Smart Boundaries™ Training
Knowledge alone of the professional code of ethics or the governing laws which pertain to professional conduct and practice are insufficient protection from a boundary violation. Smart Boundaries™ Seminars and Workshops begin with a self-evaluation and assessment of practice styles and behaviors which may indicate potential liability risks. Training then focuses on power differentials, boundary dynamics and the psychodynamics which occur at the interface of the patient/client and the professional. It extends to an awareness of one's index of susceptibility by assessing personal and professional vulnerabilities, general to the professional and specific to the individual, which place him or her at risk for a boundary violation. Risks for transgressions vary according to internal factors and external influences. Stages of professional growth and personal crises or challenges can increase the likelihood of a boundary crossing which typically precedes a boundary violation. Many unconscious factors can guide or misguide our interaction with those we serve. Becoming aware of these variables is essential for safe practice. From awareness come enlightenment and the reduction of risks.
Training programs are individualized to specific professions: content will vary. Topics typically covered include: ethics, law, power dynamics in fiduciary relationships, sexual and nonsexual misconduct, sexual harassment, professional vulnerabilities, personal risk factors, warning signs for potential problems, and proactive prevention. Healthcare seminars also cover the concepts of transference-countertransference within the therapeutic relationship, defense mechanisms, cognitive distortion, patient victimization/treatment/recovery, use of supervision/consultation, intervention, personality disorders encountered in practice, self assessments, practice assessments, and much more.
Practicing Smart Boundaries means applying the information gained from these workshops and seminars to safeguard yourself, your practice and your clients/patients.
